2010 Back to School

Sure, my dog isn't going back to school this September but let's use the season to brush up on our best training practices. I'll pass along bits of wisdom throughout the month — like my just (don't) say no tip — but I want to hear any training tricks you've picked up along the way to help life with kitties or doggies go just that much more smoothly. Share one, share all, in the comments below!

He's spoiled . . . but not that spoiled! What I mean is that I don't use the word "no" to reprimand my pooch. I always worried that it sounded too much like his name (North) and didn't want him to get confused when I was teaching that.

Even for dogs whose names don't include an N or an O, many trainers recommend teaching the concept by using different words instead! Since no one rewards no, it's harder for a pup to learn it, so a success-focused approach will work much better. Try using a word that directs your pooch to what you want him to do (off, leave it, wait, etc.) followed by a positive command (come, sit, etc.) and words of praise (good boy) and see how it works at your home.

Do you use the word no?

Though a bit controversial to some pet owners, my pooch has his very own microchip in addition to a regular ID tag with his name and my number. I was responsible enough to set North up with HomeAgain, but did I update my address after our move in June? Umm, no. Oops. Then, this sad case over on Fully Vetted reminded me that not only was my oversight common, some people don't realize that simply getting fitted isn't enough — it needs to be registered online with your contact info for the whole home again part to work!

Sure, North's microchip still had my current phone number and email address so, in reality, not a huge deal, but let this be a reminder to all of you. Take a minute and log in to the website for your pet's ID service and make sure it has your most recent address, phone number, and email on file. Better to be safe now, than to be sorry later!

Source: Flickr User mikebaird